Composer

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Leopold Godowsky

Genre

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Keyboard

Style

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Keyboard

Average_duration

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10:29

Leopold Godowsky's 'Poems (4)' is a set of four solo piano pieces composed in 1917. The premiere of the work took place in New York City on January 14, 1918, with Godowsky himself performing. The four movements of the work are titled 'The Garden of Allah', 'Alt Wien', 'Triakontameron', and 'The White Peacock'. The first movement, 'The Garden of Allah', is a lush and romantic piece that evokes the exoticism of the Middle East. It features a flowing melody that is accompanied by rich harmonies and intricate figurations in the left hand. The second movement, 'Alt Wien', is a nostalgic tribute to the Viennese waltz. It begins with a simple, lilting melody that gradually builds in intensity and complexity, culminating in a virtuosic display of pianistic fireworks. The third movement, 'Triakontameron', is a playful and whimsical piece that takes its inspiration from the ancient Greek poet Hesiod's 'Works and Days'. It features a series of short, contrasting sections that showcase Godowsky's mastery of various pianistic techniques, including rapid octave passages, intricate counterpoint, and delicate filigree. The final movement, 'The White Peacock', is a hauntingly beautiful piece that is characterized by its ethereal, impressionistic harmonies and delicate, shimmering textures. It features a soaring melody that is accompanied by a series of cascading arpeggios in the left hand, creating a sense of otherworldly beauty and mystery. Overall, 'Poems (4)' is a masterful work that showcases Godowsky's virtuosic pianistic technique and his ability to evoke a wide range of moods and emotions through his music. Its lush harmonies, intricate figurations, and evocative melodies make it a true masterpiece of the piano repertoire.

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